"A rediscovered gem: both a historically important work and a terrific entertainment." -Kirkus Reviews Recognized as a turning point in Brazilian literature, this entertaining novel of urban manners follows the ne'er-do-well Leonardo through his various romantic liaisons and frequent scrapes with the law. Memoirs of a Militia Sergeant comprises a series of humorous vignettes held together by the adventures and misfortunes of this young rogue—who matures from a handful of a toddler into a ruffian of a boy and an idler of a young man—and his father, also named Leonardo. De Almeida tells a story in everyday language that is rich in detail of life on the streets and the modest circumstances of the free poor of Rio de Janeiro.